FIFA Semi-Finals: France v. Belgium; England v. Croatia

Congratulations, Croatia! Spasiba, Russia! Thank you for some amazing hospitality, unerring organisation and splendid soccer. A memorable World Cup!

England 2 Sweden 0

Maguire 30

Dele 59

Russia 2 Croácia 2 Penalties: Croatia win 4-3

Kramaric 39, Vida 101

Cheryshev 31 Fernandes 115

Nobody expected Russia to get within one penalty shot of the semi-final, on paper Croatia was far superior to the host nation. Russia came through this FIFA World Cup with flying colors, with some excellent team-work, and some brilliant passing which saw Russia's boys make incursions down both flanks and, what is rare, through the middle. Some exhilarating flowing soccer from Russia's finest, who ate the grass and honored their shirt. Full marks to team Russia, 2018! RESPECT!